Always vote for principle, though you may vote alone, and you may cherish the sweetest reflection that your vote is never lost. ~ John Quincy Adams
"Of two evils, choose neither." Charles Haddon Spurgeon
Monday, September 29, 2008
Thursday, September 25, 2008
The Problem With John Piper's Hedonism in Christianity
My friend brought to my attention an excellent article by Metropolitan Tabernacle's Peter Masters (he has inherited a great spiritual heritage there, as Charles Spurgeon and John Gill both were shepherds of that church).
Curious of the word "hedonism", I read today the following:
"HEDONE was the spirit (daimona) of pleasure, enjoyment and delight. As a daughter of Eros (Love) she was associated more specifically with sensual pleasure. Her opposite number were the Algea (Pains). The Romans named her Voluptas. "
In the quotes below, Masters reflects the dangerous of Piper's "Christian hedonism" idea. That concern is well founded, because Piper is doing just what his notion leads to. He has lost discernment and wisdom and a solid foundation on Truth in how we are to live, worship, and proclaim Christ.Masters is careful to show respect and appreciation for Piper, but he clearly is very concerned of where his hedonism will lead. Here are some excerpts:
http://replay.waybackmachine.org/20090217145335/http://www.metropolitantabernacle.org/?page=articles&id=3
Quote:
'Christian Hedonism' Is it Right?
from Sword & Trowel 2002, No. 3 by Peter Masters
'Christian Hedonism' is a term adopted in the literature of Dr John Piper to describe his scheme for sanctification and advance in the spiritual life. Certainly, it is a very strange term, because hedonism is, for Christians, a bad word. Hedonism means the pursuit of pleasure as the chief good, but in the case of this new scheme of spiritual living, it refers to the pursuit of pleasure in God....
Dr Piper makes much use of the little sentence, 'God is most glorified in us when we are most satisfied in Him.' Indeed, the pursuit of joy in God is held as being one and the same thing as glorifying God....
Why should this article set out to assess this teaching? The answer is that many pastors and people are being influenced by it, but very serious cautions need to be sounded.
It is not surprising that believers find Christian Hedonism or 'delighting in God' interesting and attractive. To delight in the Lord is a magnificent and biblical exercise. But Dr Piper's formula for its use undoubtedly alters the understanding of sanctification long held by believers in the Reformation tradition, because it elevates one Christian duty above all others....
Whatever the strengths of Dr Piper's ministry, and there are many, his attempt to oversimplify biblical sanctification is doomed to failure because the biblical method for sanctification and spiritual advance consists of a number of strands or pathways of action, and all must receive individual attention. As soon as you substitute a single 'big idea' or organising principle, and bundle all the strands into one, you alter God's design and method. Vital aspects of Truth and conduct will go by the board to receive little or no attention. This is certainly the case with Dr Piper's method, as we will show....
Dr Piper is particularly noted for passionate communication. Those who know him say that his entire heart is in what he teaches. He is clearly no mere 'performer'. He writes and preaches with a distinctive and compelling style, achieving a popular 'flow' which everyone can follow, and yet without sacrificing depth of reasoning. He also produces many extremely powerful, expressive sentences (although these often mingle with others rather overloaded with superlatives). This reviewer must own that he finds Dr Piper too keen on producing startlingly original ways of looking at everything, and seldom are these to be found in the Bible. He is a master of the oblique approach, but at times his rather contrived reasoning leaves one grateful that Scripture, by contrast, is so straightforward and free from philosophical gymnastics....
What does the 'delighting in God' scheme have to say about some of the rampant ills of the present-day Christian scene? What does it say about the charismatic movement, and the abandonment of reverence through contemporary Christian music? What does it say about irreverent Bible translations, and other appalling trends? The answer is that Dr Piper goes in exactly the wrong direction on such matters.
Why is this? Is there some intrinsic weakness in his scheme, causing him to show such poor discernment and concern? This writer believes that there is. All single-dominant-issue schemes tend to be blind to individual matters of deep concern. Their major preoccupation creates a kind of tunnel vision, and perception fails. Dr Piper concentrates on seeing his delighting system in all the Bible, so that his recognition of the rules and principles which bear on other issues is seriously impaired.
In fact, Dr Piper's system runs so near to the mystical-emotional basis of charismatic experience that it is not surprising to find him endorsing it in large measure, and claiming great blessing from his own experience with the Toronto Blessing. We understand he advocates charismatics and non-charismatics in the same church, and encourages all the trappings of charismatic life. Hedonism is hardly protective of principle.
When delight is everything, doctrine suffers a setback. When subjective emotions are unduly elevated, the proving and testing of all things becomes impossible. On charismatic matters, and on modern worship matters also, Dr Piper is - to put it gently - an unsafe shepherd, and the fault lies not in his Bible, nor in his capacities, but in his system. As the better aspects of his ministry earn respect from his readers, so the poor guidance on potentially disastrous issues will mislead them.
End quote. [Emphasis, mine]
This is what we see happening now. Its why Piper is allowed to make up a new definition and use of "hedonism". Its why Piper embraces the Emergent Church Movement to some extent through his teaching at the ECM's Acts 29 conferences and by parading Mark Driscoll at Desiring God conferences. This is why Piper wants to open membership at his BAPTIST church, to infant sprinklers. This is why Piper offered a "Christian rap artist" to rap during a church service. This is why he's got Paul Tripp using the "s word" in a promotion video for DG. This is why, as a senior pastor of over 20 years, he seems to be confused with the issue of appropriate language and so looks to a younger, irreverent potty-mouthed man for wisdom. Hedonism has allowed Piper to simply pursue the slippery slope of the Downgrade Contraversy.
This IS the result of his own hedonism.
Curious of the word "hedonism", I read today the following:
"HEDONE was the spirit (daimona) of pleasure, enjoyment and delight. As a daughter of Eros (Love) she was associated more specifically with sensual pleasure. Her opposite number were the Algea (Pains). The Romans named her Voluptas. "
In the quotes below, Masters reflects the dangerous of Piper's "Christian hedonism" idea. That concern is well founded, because Piper is doing just what his notion leads to. He has lost discernment and wisdom and a solid foundation on Truth in how we are to live, worship, and proclaim Christ.Masters is careful to show respect and appreciation for Piper, but he clearly is very concerned of where his hedonism will lead. Here are some excerpts:
http://replay.waybackmachine.org/20090217145335/http://www.metropolitantabernacle.org/?page=articles&id=3
Quote:
'Christian Hedonism' Is it Right?
from Sword & Trowel 2002, No. 3 by Peter Masters
'Christian Hedonism' is a term adopted in the literature of Dr John Piper to describe his scheme for sanctification and advance in the spiritual life. Certainly, it is a very strange term, because hedonism is, for Christians, a bad word. Hedonism means the pursuit of pleasure as the chief good, but in the case of this new scheme of spiritual living, it refers to the pursuit of pleasure in God....
Dr Piper makes much use of the little sentence, 'God is most glorified in us when we are most satisfied in Him.' Indeed, the pursuit of joy in God is held as being one and the same thing as glorifying God....
Why should this article set out to assess this teaching? The answer is that many pastors and people are being influenced by it, but very serious cautions need to be sounded.
It is not surprising that believers find Christian Hedonism or 'delighting in God' interesting and attractive. To delight in the Lord is a magnificent and biblical exercise. But Dr Piper's formula for its use undoubtedly alters the understanding of sanctification long held by believers in the Reformation tradition, because it elevates one Christian duty above all others....
Whatever the strengths of Dr Piper's ministry, and there are many, his attempt to oversimplify biblical sanctification is doomed to failure because the biblical method for sanctification and spiritual advance consists of a number of strands or pathways of action, and all must receive individual attention. As soon as you substitute a single 'big idea' or organising principle, and bundle all the strands into one, you alter God's design and method. Vital aspects of Truth and conduct will go by the board to receive little or no attention. This is certainly the case with Dr Piper's method, as we will show....
Dr Piper is particularly noted for passionate communication. Those who know him say that his entire heart is in what he teaches. He is clearly no mere 'performer'. He writes and preaches with a distinctive and compelling style, achieving a popular 'flow' which everyone can follow, and yet without sacrificing depth of reasoning. He also produces many extremely powerful, expressive sentences (although these often mingle with others rather overloaded with superlatives). This reviewer must own that he finds Dr Piper too keen on producing startlingly original ways of looking at everything, and seldom are these to be found in the Bible. He is a master of the oblique approach, but at times his rather contrived reasoning leaves one grateful that Scripture, by contrast, is so straightforward and free from philosophical gymnastics....
What does the 'delighting in God' scheme have to say about some of the rampant ills of the present-day Christian scene? What does it say about the charismatic movement, and the abandonment of reverence through contemporary Christian music? What does it say about irreverent Bible translations, and other appalling trends? The answer is that Dr Piper goes in exactly the wrong direction on such matters.
Why is this? Is there some intrinsic weakness in his scheme, causing him to show such poor discernment and concern? This writer believes that there is. All single-dominant-issue schemes tend to be blind to individual matters of deep concern. Their major preoccupation creates a kind of tunnel vision, and perception fails. Dr Piper concentrates on seeing his delighting system in all the Bible, so that his recognition of the rules and principles which bear on other issues is seriously impaired.
In fact, Dr Piper's system runs so near to the mystical-emotional basis of charismatic experience that it is not surprising to find him endorsing it in large measure, and claiming great blessing from his own experience with the Toronto Blessing. We understand he advocates charismatics and non-charismatics in the same church, and encourages all the trappings of charismatic life. Hedonism is hardly protective of principle.
When delight is everything, doctrine suffers a setback. When subjective emotions are unduly elevated, the proving and testing of all things becomes impossible. On charismatic matters, and on modern worship matters also, Dr Piper is - to put it gently - an unsafe shepherd, and the fault lies not in his Bible, nor in his capacities, but in his system. As the better aspects of his ministry earn respect from his readers, so the poor guidance on potentially disastrous issues will mislead them.
End quote. [Emphasis, mine]
This is what we see happening now. Its why Piper is allowed to make up a new definition and use of "hedonism". Its why Piper embraces the Emergent Church Movement to some extent through his teaching at the ECM's Acts 29 conferences and by parading Mark Driscoll at Desiring God conferences. This is why Piper wants to open membership at his BAPTIST church, to infant sprinklers. This is why Piper offered a "Christian rap artist" to rap during a church service. This is why he's got Paul Tripp using the "s word" in a promotion video for DG. This is why, as a senior pastor of over 20 years, he seems to be confused with the issue of appropriate language and so looks to a younger, irreverent potty-mouthed man for wisdom. Hedonism has allowed Piper to simply pursue the slippery slope of the Downgrade Contraversy.
This IS the result of his own hedonism.
Wednesday, September 24, 2008
How Can A Seasoned Pastor Not Have Biblical Wisdom On Language?
Why is it that John Piper doesn't know the appropriateness of language and seeks to find wisdom from an unqualified man like Mark Driscoll?
I saw his video defense of Driscoll's upcoming speaking engagement at Piper's conference on "words". I've been contemplating why it is that a presumably mature pastor doesn't see Scripture clearly on course talk, when Scripture itself is clear?
Why is it that so many professing Christians find virtue in not knowing things decisively? Why is ignorance, or not knowing something, seen as "teachable" and "biblical"?
Why does an elderly man go to a young man who shows little respect for Christ and His pristine Word, for "wisdom"?
Pro 1:7 The fear of the LORD is the beginning of knowledge; fools despise wisdom and instruction.
Pro 9:10 The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom, and the knowledge of the Holy One is insight.
Col 2:2 that their hearts may be encouraged, being knit together in love, to reach all the riches of full assurance of understanding and the knowledge of God's mystery, which is Christ, 3 in whom are hidden all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge. 4 I say this in order that no one may delude you with plausible arguments.
Eph 5:17 Therefore do not be foolish, but understand what the will of the Lord is.
Pro 14:6 A scoffer seeks wisdom in vain, but knowledge is easy for a man of understanding.
Psa 1:1 Blessed is the man who walks not in the counsel of the wicked, nor stands in the way of sinners, nor sits in the seat of scoffers; 2 but his delight is in the law of the LORD, and on his law he meditates day and night.
For those who think Driscoll or other Emergents/POMO/Relevant teachers are clever in their use of gutteral verbage, as well as other worldly means, consider Scripture:
2Co 4:2 But we have renounced disgraceful, underhanded ways. We refuse to practice cunning or to tamper with God's word, but by the open statement of the truth we would commend ourselves to everyone's conscience in the sight of God.
1Ti 6:3 If anyone teaches a different doctrine and does not agree with the sound words of our Lord Jesus Christ and the teaching that accords with godliness, 1Ti 6:4 he is puffed up with conceit and understands nothing. He has an unhealthy craving for controversy and for quarrels about words, which produce envy, dissension, slander, evil suspicions, 1Ti 6:5 and constant friction among people who are depraved in mind and deprived of the truth, imagining that godliness is a means of gain.
Regarding an overseer:
Tit 1:9 He must hold firm to the trustworthy word as taught, so that he may be able to give instruction in sound doctrine and also to rebuke those who contradict it.
I saw his video defense of Driscoll's upcoming speaking engagement at Piper's conference on "words". I've been contemplating why it is that a presumably mature pastor doesn't see Scripture clearly on course talk, when Scripture itself is clear?
Why is it that so many professing Christians find virtue in not knowing things decisively? Why is ignorance, or not knowing something, seen as "teachable" and "biblical"?
Why does an elderly man go to a young man who shows little respect for Christ and His pristine Word, for "wisdom"?
Pro 1:7 The fear of the LORD is the beginning of knowledge; fools despise wisdom and instruction.
Pro 9:10 The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom, and the knowledge of the Holy One is insight.
Col 2:2 that their hearts may be encouraged, being knit together in love, to reach all the riches of full assurance of understanding and the knowledge of God's mystery, which is Christ, 3 in whom are hidden all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge. 4 I say this in order that no one may delude you with plausible arguments.
Eph 5:17 Therefore do not be foolish, but understand what the will of the Lord is.
Pro 14:6 A scoffer seeks wisdom in vain, but knowledge is easy for a man of understanding.
Psa 1:1 Blessed is the man who walks not in the counsel of the wicked, nor stands in the way of sinners, nor sits in the seat of scoffers; 2 but his delight is in the law of the LORD, and on his law he meditates day and night.
For those who think Driscoll or other Emergents/POMO/Relevant teachers are clever in their use of gutteral verbage, as well as other worldly means, consider Scripture:
2Co 4:2 But we have renounced disgraceful, underhanded ways. We refuse to practice cunning or to tamper with God's word, but by the open statement of the truth we would commend ourselves to everyone's conscience in the sight of God.
1Ti 6:3 If anyone teaches a different doctrine and does not agree with the sound words of our Lord Jesus Christ and the teaching that accords with godliness, 1Ti 6:4 he is puffed up with conceit and understands nothing. He has an unhealthy craving for controversy and for quarrels about words, which produce envy, dissension, slander, evil suspicions, 1Ti 6:5 and constant friction among people who are depraved in mind and deprived of the truth, imagining that godliness is a means of gain.
Regarding an overseer:
Tit 1:9 He must hold firm to the trustworthy word as taught, so that he may be able to give instruction in sound doctrine and also to rebuke those who contradict it.
There Won't Be Enough Evidence For the Skeptics Who Defend Piper, Driscoll, & Tripp
I often say that there is never enough evidence for a skeptic. I believe this is true for Piper (Tripp, Driscoll, Zacharias, Boltz) apologists. I know the list is longer, but these are the names that have recently been in the news lately.
For those who think there is no evidence of Piper's Downgrade, either they have been ignoring his recent actions or are in agreement with them.
While I will not do the skeptics/apologists' homework, however, I'll give them a little jump start, should they actually want to see and believe the evidence (I'm not holding my breath).
Let's start with one of my own posts: http://surphside.blogspot.com/search?q=Mark+Driscoll%27s+Vintage
Here's where you can do more research:
http://www.lighthousetrailsresearch.com/blog/and http://www.lighthousetrailsresearch.com/
Two of their articles were from two years ago. I saw Piper's hand-holding with the ECM leader, Driscoll about two years prior to that.
Piper hasn't distanced himself from Driscoll, but continues to hold hands with him. and defends him. And now even Paul Tripp is using foul language "to make a point" about "the motive of the heart" which is absolutely ridiculous. (Let's not forget that Tripp led his children into using a cuss word repeatedly, too. )
There is plenty of information on Driscoll for biblical Christians to see how disqualified he is to be a pastor and a teacher of God's HOLY Word. For someone of Piper's fame to deliberately and continually endorse Driscoll (dubbed "the cussing pastor" by Donald Miller, author of "Blue Like Jazz") is wrong.
Yup, I said its wrong. It seems very few people are willing to be clear on this issue. But I don't see how either Piper or Driscoll are living up to the biblical standards of being an undershepherd.
1Co 15:33 Do not be deceived: "Bad company ruins good morals."
Offering putrid, decaying garbage to feed HIS sheep and lambs with, is an absolute disgrace, regardless of the name or label used.
And remember: holding to TULIP doesn't give anyone a free pass. Saying some right things doesn't negate the continual error, either.
Jud 1:4 For certain people have crept in unnoticed who long ago were designated for this condemnation, ungodly people, who pervert the grace of our God into sensuality and deny our only Master and Lord, Jesus Christ.
How did these people "creep in unnoticed"? How does Satan and his workers deceive so many professing Christians? Do false teachers and false brothers announce themselves as such? Is deception merely just doctrinal? Can it include false, unbiblical practices?
Please, get off the bandwagon of rallying around your favorite teacher and be honest in testing him against Scripture. If he falls short, may your loyalty to go Christ Jesus alone.
For those who think there is no evidence of Piper's Downgrade, either they have been ignoring his recent actions or are in agreement with them.
While I will not do the skeptics/apologists' homework, however, I'll give them a little jump start, should they actually want to see and believe the evidence (I'm not holding my breath).
Let's start with one of my own posts: http://surphside.blogspot.com/search?q=Mark+Driscoll%27s+Vintage
Here's where you can do more research:
http://www.lighthousetrailsresearch.com/blog/and http://www.lighthousetrailsresearch.com/
Two of their articles were from two years ago. I saw Piper's hand-holding with the ECM leader, Driscoll about two years prior to that.
Piper hasn't distanced himself from Driscoll, but continues to hold hands with him. and defends him. And now even Paul Tripp is using foul language "to make a point" about "the motive of the heart" which is absolutely ridiculous. (Let's not forget that Tripp led his children into using a cuss word repeatedly, too. )
There is plenty of information on Driscoll for biblical Christians to see how disqualified he is to be a pastor and a teacher of God's HOLY Word. For someone of Piper's fame to deliberately and continually endorse Driscoll (dubbed "the cussing pastor" by Donald Miller, author of "Blue Like Jazz") is wrong.
Yup, I said its wrong. It seems very few people are willing to be clear on this issue. But I don't see how either Piper or Driscoll are living up to the biblical standards of being an undershepherd.
1Co 15:33 Do not be deceived: "Bad company ruins good morals."
Offering putrid, decaying garbage to feed HIS sheep and lambs with, is an absolute disgrace, regardless of the name or label used.
And remember: holding to TULIP doesn't give anyone a free pass. Saying some right things doesn't negate the continual error, either.
Jud 1:4 For certain people have crept in unnoticed who long ago were designated for this condemnation, ungodly people, who pervert the grace of our God into sensuality and deny our only Master and Lord, Jesus Christ.
How did these people "creep in unnoticed"? How does Satan and his workers deceive so many professing Christians? Do false teachers and false brothers announce themselves as such? Is deception merely just doctrinal? Can it include false, unbiblical practices?
Please, get off the bandwagon of rallying around your favorite teacher and be honest in testing him against Scripture. If he falls short, may your loyalty to go Christ Jesus alone.
Tuesday, September 23, 2008
Christians: Do Not Lend Your Support Nor Wink At The Error of A "Good-Natured Brother"!
In thinking about John Piper's defense of foul-mouthed "pastors", I think Spurgeon hit the nail on the head when he said:
Is it any wonder that church members forget their vows of consecration, and run with the unholy in the ways of frivolity, when they hear that persons are tolerated in the pastorate who do the same? We doubt not that, for writing these lines we shall incur the charge of prudery and bigotry, and this will but prove how low are the tone and spirit of the churches in many places.
The fact is, that many would like to unite church and stage, cards and prayer, dancing and sacraments. If we are powerless to stem this torrent, we can at least warn men of its existence, and entreat them to keep out of it....
"Sir, do you believe in the Holy Ghost?" The youth replied, "I suppose I do." To which the deacon answered, "I suppose you do not, or you would not have insulted us with such false doctrine." A little plain-speaking would do a world of good just now. These gentlemen desire to be let alone. They want no noise raised. Of course thieves hate watch-dogs, and love darkness. It is time that somebody should spring his rattle, and call attention to the way in which God is being robbed of his glory, and man of his hope.
For the present it behoves believers to be cautious, lest they lend their support and countenance to the betrayers of the Lord.
Numbers of easy-minded people wink at error so long as it is committed by a clever man and a good-natured brother, who has so many fine points about him. Let each believer judge for himself; but, for our part, we have put on a few fresh bolts to our door, and we have given orders to keep the chain up; for, under color of begging the friendship of the servant, there are those about who aim at robbing THE MASTER.
Is it any wonder that church members forget their vows of consecration, and run with the unholy in the ways of frivolity, when they hear that persons are tolerated in the pastorate who do the same? We doubt not that, for writing these lines we shall incur the charge of prudery and bigotry, and this will but prove how low are the tone and spirit of the churches in many places.
The fact is, that many would like to unite church and stage, cards and prayer, dancing and sacraments. If we are powerless to stem this torrent, we can at least warn men of its existence, and entreat them to keep out of it....
"Sir, do you believe in the Holy Ghost?" The youth replied, "I suppose I do." To which the deacon answered, "I suppose you do not, or you would not have insulted us with such false doctrine." A little plain-speaking would do a world of good just now. These gentlemen desire to be let alone. They want no noise raised. Of course thieves hate watch-dogs, and love darkness. It is time that somebody should spring his rattle, and call attention to the way in which God is being robbed of his glory, and man of his hope.
For the present it behoves believers to be cautious, lest they lend their support and countenance to the betrayers of the Lord.
Numbers of easy-minded people wink at error so long as it is committed by a clever man and a good-natured brother, who has so many fine points about him. Let each believer judge for himself; but, for our part, we have put on a few fresh bolts to our door, and we have given orders to keep the chain up; for, under color of begging the friendship of the servant, there are those about who aim at robbing THE MASTER.
John Piper and His Continual Defense of Men Who Violate God's Commands
I have a strong view on Piper, and I guess I'll step on a lot of toes here perhaps. But I believe it has to be said. Bear with me....This IS the real John Piper. I think it started with his redefinition of "hedonism" and combining it with "Christian". Then came his friendship and defense of Mark-Potty-Mouth-Driscoll, the rap in church, and now Paul Tripp's cussing, among other things.
When "everyone" loves a man like Piper or Graham, you can bet there's something very wrong. Truth is narrow, & living a godly, separate life from the world (2Cor. 6) brings persecution from the world itself and from professing Christianity.Piper has a lot of audience to pull in and keep.
I've seen his downgrade continue for years, so I'm not surprised. Why is anyone else? Why do people refuse to believe Piper IS seeker-emergent-friendly and has compromised biblical Truth repeatedly? Certainly, he is not beyond being deceived. And this is indeed why having a "rubber stamp" mentality is so dangerous: just b/c Piper approves of Driscoll and Tripp doesn't mean its ok. I have found that many Christian bloggers/ministries, who like Piper and list him as a resource and off his ministry link, ALSO like Driscoll and offer HIS link as well.
Piper's DEFENSE of such men and their course and crude language shows a lack of discernment and wisdom and frankly, a love of that which is NOT holy.
Recall what Spurgeon saw in his day ---we are witnessing it today, only worse. And the enemy isn't just the world, its INSIDE the camp THIS is why it is SO disheartening as a Christian.
Pro 10:32 The lips of the righteous know what is acceptable, but the mouth of the wicked, what is perverse.
Eph 5:3 But sexual immorality and all impurity or covetousness must not even be named among you, as is proper among saints. Nor should there be obscenity, foolish talk or coarse joking, which are out of place, but rather thanksgiving. 5 For you may be sure of this, that everyone who is sexually immoral or impure, or who is covetous (that is, an idolater), has no inheritance in the kingdom of Christ and God. 6 Let no one deceive you with empty words, for because of these things the wrath of God comes upon the sons of disobedience. 7 Therefore do not associate with them;
Eph 5:11 Take no part in the unfruitful works of darkness, but instead expose them.
Rom. 16: 17 I urge you, brothers, to watch out for those who cause divisions and put obstacles in your way that are contrary to the teaching you have learned. Keep away from them. 18 For such people are not serving our Lord Christ, but their own appetites. By smooth talk and flattery they deceive the minds of naive people. 19 Everyone has heard about your obedience, so I am full of joy over you; but I want you to be wise about what is good, and innocent about what is evil.
Col. 4: 6 Let your conversation be always full of grace, seasoned with salt, so that you may know how to answer everyone.
Eph. 4: 29 Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen. 30 And do not grieve the Holy Spirit of God, with whom you were sealed for the day of redemption. 31 Get rid of all bitterness, rage and anger, brawling and slander, along with every form of malice.
2 Tim. 2: 14 Keep reminding them of these things. Warn them before God against quarreling about words; it is of no value, and only ruins those who listen.
When "everyone" loves a man like Piper or Graham, you can bet there's something very wrong. Truth is narrow, & living a godly, separate life from the world (2Cor. 6) brings persecution from the world itself and from professing Christianity.Piper has a lot of audience to pull in and keep.
I've seen his downgrade continue for years, so I'm not surprised. Why is anyone else? Why do people refuse to believe Piper IS seeker-emergent-friendly and has compromised biblical Truth repeatedly? Certainly, he is not beyond being deceived. And this is indeed why having a "rubber stamp" mentality is so dangerous: just b/c Piper approves of Driscoll and Tripp doesn't mean its ok. I have found that many Christian bloggers/ministries, who like Piper and list him as a resource and off his ministry link, ALSO like Driscoll and offer HIS link as well.
Piper's DEFENSE of such men and their course and crude language shows a lack of discernment and wisdom and frankly, a love of that which is NOT holy.
Recall what Spurgeon saw in his day ---we are witnessing it today, only worse. And the enemy isn't just the world, its INSIDE the camp THIS is why it is SO disheartening as a Christian.
Pro 10:32 The lips of the righteous know what is acceptable, but the mouth of the wicked, what is perverse.
Eph 5:3 But sexual immorality and all impurity or covetousness must not even be named among you, as is proper among saints. Nor should there be obscenity, foolish talk or coarse joking, which are out of place, but rather thanksgiving. 5 For you may be sure of this, that everyone who is sexually immoral or impure, or who is covetous (that is, an idolater), has no inheritance in the kingdom of Christ and God. 6 Let no one deceive you with empty words, for because of these things the wrath of God comes upon the sons of disobedience. 7 Therefore do not associate with them;
Eph 5:11 Take no part in the unfruitful works of darkness, but instead expose them.
Rom. 16: 17 I urge you, brothers, to watch out for those who cause divisions and put obstacles in your way that are contrary to the teaching you have learned. Keep away from them. 18 For such people are not serving our Lord Christ, but their own appetites. By smooth talk and flattery they deceive the minds of naive people. 19 Everyone has heard about your obedience, so I am full of joy over you; but I want you to be wise about what is good, and innocent about what is evil.
Col. 4: 6 Let your conversation be always full of grace, seasoned with salt, so that you may know how to answer everyone.
Eph. 4: 29 Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen. 30 And do not grieve the Holy Spirit of God, with whom you were sealed for the day of redemption. 31 Get rid of all bitterness, rage and anger, brawling and slander, along with every form of malice.
2 Tim. 2: 14 Keep reminding them of these things. Warn them before God against quarreling about words; it is of no value, and only ruins those who listen.
Thursday, September 18, 2008
"The Idolatry of Talented Men"
Ingrid Schuelter at Slice Of Laodicea ends her post on the further apostasy of Ravi Zacharias, saying,
"It’s time to stop the idolatry of talented men, and start being Bereans in the church once again."
We can apply this across the board, whether its John Piper and his approval of foul-mouthed "pastors", singer Ray Boltz being brazen in his sodomy, or Ravi Zacharias (video here)embracing error(he can't answer the question if a person can be a sincere Christian AND a homosexual with a simple "no"--he takes nearly ten minutes to answer "yes" as long as you don't "act" on it; and he quotes in an admirable way Roman Catholic Eastern Mystic Henri Nouwen who was apparently an admitted homosexual ).
Its time Christians stop having the Magisterium Mentality and test all people and teachings and behavior according to Scripture, and be willing to leave behind those who fall short of biblical truth. If you aren't willing to let go of your favorite author or teacher, there's no point in testing him. The reason we are to test them is so that we stay away from such false teachers and not imitate their error.
The Magisterium Mentality is summed up here:
RCC Cat. # 85 "The task of giving an authentic interpretation of the Word of God, whether in its written form or in the form of Tradition, has been entrusted to the living teaching office of the Church alone. Its authority in this matter is exercised in the name of Jesus Christ."
Scripture says, however:
1Jn 4:1 Beloved, do not believe every spirit, but test the spirits to see whether they are from God, for many false prophets have gone out into the world. 2 By this you know the Spirit of God: every spirit that confesses that Jesus Christ has come in the flesh is from God, 3 and every spirit that does not confess Jesus is not from God. This is the spirit of the antichrist, which you heard was coming and now is in the world already. 4 Little children, you are from God and have overcome them, for he who is in you is greater than he who is in the world.
Mat 7:15 "Beware of false prophets, who come to you in sheep's clothing but inwardly are ravenous wolves.
Mat 7:18 A healthy tree cannot bear bad fruit, nor can a diseased tree bear good fruit.
Mat 7:19 Every tree that does not bear good fruit is cut down and thrown into the fire.
Mat 7:20 Thus you will recognize them by their fruits.
Mat 7:21 "Not everyone who says to me, 'Lord, Lord,' will enter the kingdom of heaven, but the one who does the will of my Father who is in heaven.
Mat 7:22 On that day many will say to me, 'Lord, Lord, did we not prophesy in your name, and cast out demons in your name, and do many mighty works in your name?'
Mat 7:23 And then will I declare to them, 'I never knew you; depart from me, you workers of lawlessness.'
2Pe 2:1 But false prophets also arose among the people, just as there will be false teachers among you, who will secretly bring in destructive heresies, even denying the Master who bought them, bringing upon themselves swift destruction.
2Pe 2:2 And many will follow their sensuality, and because of them the way of truth will be blasphemed.
2Pe 2:3 And in their greed they will exploit you with false words. Their condemnation from long ago is not idle, and their destruction is not asleep.
"It’s time to stop the idolatry of talented men, and start being Bereans in the church once again."
We can apply this across the board, whether its John Piper and his approval of foul-mouthed "pastors", singer Ray Boltz being brazen in his sodomy, or Ravi Zacharias (video here)embracing error(he can't answer the question if a person can be a sincere Christian AND a homosexual with a simple "no"--he takes nearly ten minutes to answer "yes" as long as you don't "act" on it; and he quotes in an admirable way Roman Catholic Eastern Mystic Henri Nouwen who was apparently an admitted homosexual ).
Its time Christians stop having the Magisterium Mentality and test all people and teachings and behavior according to Scripture, and be willing to leave behind those who fall short of biblical truth. If you aren't willing to let go of your favorite author or teacher, there's no point in testing him. The reason we are to test them is so that we stay away from such false teachers and not imitate their error.
The Magisterium Mentality is summed up here:
RCC Cat. # 85 "The task of giving an authentic interpretation of the Word of God, whether in its written form or in the form of Tradition, has been entrusted to the living teaching office of the Church alone. Its authority in this matter is exercised in the name of Jesus Christ."
Scripture says, however:
1Jn 4:1 Beloved, do not believe every spirit, but test the spirits to see whether they are from God, for many false prophets have gone out into the world. 2 By this you know the Spirit of God: every spirit that confesses that Jesus Christ has come in the flesh is from God, 3 and every spirit that does not confess Jesus is not from God. This is the spirit of the antichrist, which you heard was coming and now is in the world already. 4 Little children, you are from God and have overcome them, for he who is in you is greater than he who is in the world.
Mat 7:15 "Beware of false prophets, who come to you in sheep's clothing but inwardly are ravenous wolves.
Mat 7:18 A healthy tree cannot bear bad fruit, nor can a diseased tree bear good fruit.
Mat 7:19 Every tree that does not bear good fruit is cut down and thrown into the fire.
Mat 7:20 Thus you will recognize them by their fruits.
Mat 7:21 "Not everyone who says to me, 'Lord, Lord,' will enter the kingdom of heaven, but the one who does the will of my Father who is in heaven.
Mat 7:22 On that day many will say to me, 'Lord, Lord, did we not prophesy in your name, and cast out demons in your name, and do many mighty works in your name?'
Mat 7:23 And then will I declare to them, 'I never knew you; depart from me, you workers of lawlessness.'
2Pe 2:1 But false prophets also arose among the people, just as there will be false teachers among you, who will secretly bring in destructive heresies, even denying the Master who bought them, bringing upon themselves swift destruction.
2Pe 2:2 And many will follow their sensuality, and because of them the way of truth will be blasphemed.
2Pe 2:3 And in their greed they will exploit you with false words. Their condemnation from long ago is not idle, and their destruction is not asleep.
Wednesday, September 17, 2008
"Christianity Today" --A Total Farce
I read Ingrid Schlueter's article this morning over at Slice of Laodicea, and thought how she's got it right, once again. She says in part:
In talking about an upcoming "apologist" conference, starring non other than the great apologist himself, James Dobson (uh, he's hardly an apologist---he's merely a humanistic psychologist "Christian" in my own opinion), Ingrid challenges the notion of such a conference, given the farce of "Christianity" today:
Quote:
With months long freak shows like the one Todd Bentley just completed, with televangelists jetting around at donor expense so the Senate has to investigate, with men like John Avanzini handing out lucky rubbing stones so people can get rich, with cussing pastors and churches handing out cards with ideas to jazz up your sex life, with pastors getting arrested for trying to hook up with 13-year-old girls online, and so forth and so on, maybe they shouldn’t call this a National Apologetics Conference. I think it should be called a National Apology Conference. They could line up Christian “leaders” and lay people who could spend hours apologizing.
1. We’re sorry for treating Jesus Christ as a life-enhancement product.
2. We’re sorry for funding and listening to crooks and liars on TV and sending them money.
3. We’re sorry for attending churches where live motorcycle stunts are performed onstage.
4. We’re sorry for having 3rd rate ethics while claiming to follow Christ.
5. We’re sorry that neighbors had to call the police because our church sound system blew out their windows.
6. We’re sorry for supporting a deranged “evangelist” who kicks people in the stomach to cure their cancer.
7. We’re sorry for wearing/selling/buying stupid T-shirts that blaspheme God and thinking that would impress non-Christians.
8. We’re sorry for spending billions of dollars on music downloads and CD’s of our favorite Christian pop star and funding their demise.
9. We’re sorry for blowing off Sola Scriptura and returning to medieval mysticism.
10. We’re sorry for buying books from heretical wolves like Brian McLaren who deny hell, the substitutionary atonement and the Second Coming.
11. We’re sorry for adopting hindu worship practices as a Christian means of encountering God.
12. We’re sorry for buying trash like The Shack that redefines the Trinity and introduces goddess theology to evangelicals.
13. We’re sorry for following the Rupert Murdoch-sponsored pied piper into his latest church campaign because we refuse to think biblically.
End quote.
These things are disgusting, but it reflects "Christianity" today. Scripture speaks of such nonsense:
2Ti 3:12 Indeed, all who desire to live a godly life in Christ Jesus will be persecuted, 13 while evil people and impostors will go on from bad to worse, deceiving and being deceived.
2Ti 4:3 For the time is coming when people will not endure sound teaching, but having itching ears they will accumulate for themselves teachers to suit their own passions, 4 and will turn away from listening to the truth and wander off into myths.
And why is it that millions fall for such putride garbage while slapping "Jesus" on to it? They lack a love for Truth, for Scripture, for God, and for His people. They are worldlings that are merely religious. I'll even go a step further and say most of these people were saved by a gospel, but not The Gospel.
Most professing Christians are told while unsaved, that
Jesus loves you
If you were the only person in the whole world, Jesus would have died just for you
God is on bended knee, arm stretched out with a ring, hoping you say "yes" to His proposal
Make a decision, walk down an aisle, raise a hand to get saved
Say a prayer to get saved
Jesus is your boyfriend, best buddy, He won't judge you
God has a wonderful plan for your life
Free will / neutrality toward God and sin
Moreover, the "gospel" people hear and believe is nothing more than a self-esteem pep talk. It has man at the center of the Gospel, Salvation, the Bible, and God's universe.
They leave OUT:
Jesus Christ is Lord (Master, Sovereign King, to be obeyed)
Jesus is God
Jesus Christ is the center of the Gospel
Jesus Christ is the center of the Bible
God is the center of the Universe
God's wrath on the sinner (the person, not *just* the sin, as is so commonly proclaimed--John 3:36)
Man's total depravity / sin
Repentance from sin
Jesus is sinless and took the Father's wrath at the cross, paying for all the sin of those who believe
Jesus died and rose again on the Third Day according to the Scriptures
Jesus is the ONLY way, Truth, and life, and NO ONE comes to the Father but by Him
Hell is where you go if you refuse to believe in Him alone for salvation, apart from your works
What we end up with is a bunch of self-absorbed religious people who are not anchored in Truth and therefore have no solid foundation. They are worldly, have a form of godliness but no power, claim a Jesus, but not the Master who is Ruler and Dictator. They fall for every type of doctrine and philosophy of the world (psychology, evolution, humanism, gnosticism, intellectualism, superstition/Charismaticism/Word of Faith, feminism), they are easily offended, judge others for being judgmental. They tolerate sin and false teachers, but not Truth and those who stand for biblical Truth. Thse "Christians" end up in prison, arrested for DUI, outted as sodomites, found to have committed fraud on the unsuspecting, cuss and swear like sailors.
Its no wonder the world laughs at them: their own jesus is as effective as allah or Barney. Their lives are full of divorce, adultery, fornication, homosexuality (Ray Boltz, the singer is the most recent to flaunt his lies and homosexuality), envy, strife, chaos in the home and in the church. Their children are themselves sexually immoral, getting pregnant as teenagers, doing drugs (some prominent "Christians" admit about their days of drug use), bitter, and angry.
What's the point in being THAT kind of "Christian"? Might as well do it all without the "restraints" of "Christianity" since they ARE doing all those things anyway. What a farce and what absolute hypocrisy!
In talking about an upcoming "apologist" conference, starring non other than the great apologist himself, James Dobson (uh, he's hardly an apologist---he's merely a humanistic psychologist "Christian" in my own opinion), Ingrid challenges the notion of such a conference, given the farce of "Christianity" today:
Quote:
With months long freak shows like the one Todd Bentley just completed, with televangelists jetting around at donor expense so the Senate has to investigate, with men like John Avanzini handing out lucky rubbing stones so people can get rich, with cussing pastors and churches handing out cards with ideas to jazz up your sex life, with pastors getting arrested for trying to hook up with 13-year-old girls online, and so forth and so on, maybe they shouldn’t call this a National Apologetics Conference. I think it should be called a National Apology Conference. They could line up Christian “leaders” and lay people who could spend hours apologizing.
1. We’re sorry for treating Jesus Christ as a life-enhancement product.
2. We’re sorry for funding and listening to crooks and liars on TV and sending them money.
3. We’re sorry for attending churches where live motorcycle stunts are performed onstage.
4. We’re sorry for having 3rd rate ethics while claiming to follow Christ.
5. We’re sorry that neighbors had to call the police because our church sound system blew out their windows.
6. We’re sorry for supporting a deranged “evangelist” who kicks people in the stomach to cure their cancer.
7. We’re sorry for wearing/selling/buying stupid T-shirts that blaspheme God and thinking that would impress non-Christians.
8. We’re sorry for spending billions of dollars on music downloads and CD’s of our favorite Christian pop star and funding their demise.
9. We’re sorry for blowing off Sola Scriptura and returning to medieval mysticism.
10. We’re sorry for buying books from heretical wolves like Brian McLaren who deny hell, the substitutionary atonement and the Second Coming.
11. We’re sorry for adopting hindu worship practices as a Christian means of encountering God.
12. We’re sorry for buying trash like The Shack that redefines the Trinity and introduces goddess theology to evangelicals.
13. We’re sorry for following the Rupert Murdoch-sponsored pied piper into his latest church campaign because we refuse to think biblically.
End quote.
These things are disgusting, but it reflects "Christianity" today. Scripture speaks of such nonsense:
2Ti 3:12 Indeed, all who desire to live a godly life in Christ Jesus will be persecuted, 13 while evil people and impostors will go on from bad to worse, deceiving and being deceived.
2Ti 4:3 For the time is coming when people will not endure sound teaching, but having itching ears they will accumulate for themselves teachers to suit their own passions, 4 and will turn away from listening to the truth and wander off into myths.
And why is it that millions fall for such putride garbage while slapping "Jesus" on to it? They lack a love for Truth, for Scripture, for God, and for His people. They are worldlings that are merely religious. I'll even go a step further and say most of these people were saved by a gospel, but not The Gospel.
Most professing Christians are told while unsaved, that
Jesus loves you
If you were the only person in the whole world, Jesus would have died just for you
God is on bended knee, arm stretched out with a ring, hoping you say "yes" to His proposal
Make a decision, walk down an aisle, raise a hand to get saved
Say a prayer to get saved
Jesus is your boyfriend, best buddy, He won't judge you
God has a wonderful plan for your life
Free will / neutrality toward God and sin
Moreover, the "gospel" people hear and believe is nothing more than a self-esteem pep talk. It has man at the center of the Gospel, Salvation, the Bible, and God's universe.
They leave OUT:
Jesus Christ is Lord (Master, Sovereign King, to be obeyed)
Jesus is God
Jesus Christ is the center of the Gospel
Jesus Christ is the center of the Bible
God is the center of the Universe
God's wrath on the sinner (the person, not *just* the sin, as is so commonly proclaimed--John 3:36)
Man's total depravity / sin
Repentance from sin
Jesus is sinless and took the Father's wrath at the cross, paying for all the sin of those who believe
Jesus died and rose again on the Third Day according to the Scriptures
Jesus is the ONLY way, Truth, and life, and NO ONE comes to the Father but by Him
Hell is where you go if you refuse to believe in Him alone for salvation, apart from your works
What we end up with is a bunch of self-absorbed religious people who are not anchored in Truth and therefore have no solid foundation. They are worldly, have a form of godliness but no power, claim a Jesus, but not the Master who is Ruler and Dictator. They fall for every type of doctrine and philosophy of the world (psychology, evolution, humanism, gnosticism, intellectualism, superstition/Charismaticism/Word of Faith, feminism), they are easily offended, judge others for being judgmental. They tolerate sin and false teachers, but not Truth and those who stand for biblical Truth. Thse "Christians" end up in prison, arrested for DUI, outted as sodomites, found to have committed fraud on the unsuspecting, cuss and swear like sailors.
Its no wonder the world laughs at them: their own jesus is as effective as allah or Barney. Their lives are full of divorce, adultery, fornication, homosexuality (Ray Boltz, the singer is the most recent to flaunt his lies and homosexuality), envy, strife, chaos in the home and in the church. Their children are themselves sexually immoral, getting pregnant as teenagers, doing drugs (some prominent "Christians" admit about their days of drug use), bitter, and angry.
What's the point in being THAT kind of "Christian"? Might as well do it all without the "restraints" of "Christianity" since they ARE doing all those things anyway. What a farce and what absolute hypocrisy!
Monday, September 15, 2008
Me? Pro-Choice? Okay!
Ya want choice? Okay.....
I CHOOSE to NOT vote for evil.
I choose not to vote for the greater OR lesser evil. Evil is evil. Even if its cute, smart, sassy, classy, convincing, or articulate.
A rose by any other name....has thorns.
I CHOOSE to NOT vote for evil.
I choose not to vote for the greater OR lesser evil. Evil is evil. Even if its cute, smart, sassy, classy, convincing, or articulate.
A rose by any other name....has thorns.
Thursday, September 11, 2008
9-11-08
Seven years ago today, my sister called me to ask if I had been watching the news. I turned it on only to see the remains of the first airplane that hit one of the World Trade Center Towers. And then I watched the second airplane hit. I was in shock.
As I was watching, the news confirmed there was another plane still airborn, held hostage by some men. It was at that moment that my daughter (who was 8) and I started to pray for those people in that airplane. God in His grace, had that plane crash into a field far from the terrorists' destination.
I will always remember 9-11-01 in this way. I hope it encourages other Christians to pray when they hear of a tragedy in the making. It amazes me how God moves His children to pray for others they do no know. It brings me comfort knowing He could do the same for me, should I ever be in a horrible situation.
I also pray it spurs Christians to pray for our brothers and sisters in Christ Jesus who at this moment are suffering in prisons and facing torture, as well as their familes ripped apart, children taken from their arms, homes destroyed, and lives taken, simply because they a Christians and belong to Jesus Christ. While they may never know your name, your prayers on behalf of these precious unknown Christians are heard by the God Who Hears....and HE knows them each by name.
Psa 91:14 "Because he holds fast to me in love, I will deliver him; I will protect him, because he knows my name. 15 When he calls to me, I will answer him; I will be with him in trouble; I will rescue him and honor him. 16 With long life I will satisfy him and show him my salvation."
2Ti 2:19 But God's firm foundation stands, bearing this seal: "The Lord knows those who are his," and, "Let everyone who names the name of the Lord depart from iniquity."
May those who survived 9-11 or lost loved ones on that day, turn to the Great Shepherd, Savior, and Master for forgiveness of their sin and for eternal life. Only in the Person of Christ Jesus can there ever be true and everlasting peace, for HE alone IS the Prince of Peace.
As I was watching, the news confirmed there was another plane still airborn, held hostage by some men. It was at that moment that my daughter (who was 8) and I started to pray for those people in that airplane. God in His grace, had that plane crash into a field far from the terrorists' destination.
I will always remember 9-11-01 in this way. I hope it encourages other Christians to pray when they hear of a tragedy in the making. It amazes me how God moves His children to pray for others they do no know. It brings me comfort knowing He could do the same for me, should I ever be in a horrible situation.
I also pray it spurs Christians to pray for our brothers and sisters in Christ Jesus who at this moment are suffering in prisons and facing torture, as well as their familes ripped apart, children taken from their arms, homes destroyed, and lives taken, simply because they a Christians and belong to Jesus Christ. While they may never know your name, your prayers on behalf of these precious unknown Christians are heard by the God Who Hears....and HE knows them each by name.
Psa 91:14 "Because he holds fast to me in love, I will deliver him; I will protect him, because he knows my name. 15 When he calls to me, I will answer him; I will be with him in trouble; I will rescue him and honor him. 16 With long life I will satisfy him and show him my salvation."
2Ti 2:19 But God's firm foundation stands, bearing this seal: "The Lord knows those who are his," and, "Let everyone who names the name of the Lord depart from iniquity."
May those who survived 9-11 or lost loved ones on that day, turn to the Great Shepherd, Savior, and Master for forgiveness of their sin and for eternal life. Only in the Person of Christ Jesus can there ever be true and everlasting peace, for HE alone IS the Prince of Peace.
Monday, September 08, 2008
"Christians" defending Palin Using Same Mentality As The Pro-Abortion Debate
Its interesting to me to see "Christians" defend Sarah Palin's position as a leader at the expense of her family's needs, just like pro-abortionists.
They say its her right to choose to work full time. But the child suffers enormously without the mother around.
Just like its a choice to abort a child, even if it means making that poor baby suffer a slow and agonizing death.
Its the same mentality in thinking here (and no, I'm not saying those who support Palin are supporting abortion, but I'm sure I'll be accused of that). These "Christians" are not thinking of God's command of women to submit to their husbands as is proper in HIS design of marriage; they are not thinking of the ill affects on the children with a motherless home/family life; or a home with an emasculated father; they are thinking solely of the mother's RIGHT TO CHOOSE...not to abort the child, but dump it nearly as sooon as its born.
How utterly tragic and self-serving.
I believe people compromise Truth because they have a relationship at stake. I see this continue to come to fruition.
This doesn't please HIM in the least and it destroys families.
They say its her right to choose to work full time. But the child suffers enormously without the mother around.
Just like its a choice to abort a child, even if it means making that poor baby suffer a slow and agonizing death.
Its the same mentality in thinking here (and no, I'm not saying those who support Palin are supporting abortion, but I'm sure I'll be accused of that). These "Christians" are not thinking of God's command of women to submit to their husbands as is proper in HIS design of marriage; they are not thinking of the ill affects on the children with a motherless home/family life; or a home with an emasculated father; they are thinking solely of the mother's RIGHT TO CHOOSE...not to abort the child, but dump it nearly as sooon as its born.
How utterly tragic and self-serving.
I believe people compromise Truth because they have a relationship at stake. I see this continue to come to fruition.
This doesn't please HIM in the least and it destroys families.
Thursday, September 04, 2008
More Women Sounding Off Against Feminist Sarah Palin And What She Represents
Two articles/commentaries I've read recently have some good comments I'd like to share:
Dr. Laura Schlesinger (I do not endorse her overall since she's not a Christian, but her argumenation regarding Sarah Palin reflects what I've already said):
Forget gender and race. I’m frankly and sadly caught in the dilemma of having to balance policy versus example in touting a candidate for the office of the First Family. I was ferociously attacked (what’s new?) when I spoke out strongly against Bill Clinton’s dalliances in the Oval Office. That situation quickly turned into a debate whether “private has anything to do with public.” Nonsense. Role models are very important. Children and young adults look to those who are visible and successful as a road map of what is acceptable behavior and emulate those actions over the morals and values their parents and churches have taught and tried to reinforce. It’s a tough go these days, when the “bad that men or women do” is used for entertainment purposes without judgment, or is excused because of political or financial considerations.
I am haunted by the family pictures of the Palins during political photo-ops, showing the eldest daughter, now pregnant with her own child, cuddling the family’s newborn. When Mom and Dad both work full-time (no matter how many folks get involved with the children), it becomes a somewhat chaotic situation. Certainly, if a child becomes ill and is rushed to the hospital, and you’re on the hotline with both Israel and Iran as nuclear tempers are flaring, where’s your attention going to be? Where should your attention be? Well, once you put your hand on the Bible and make that oath, your attention has to be with the government of the United States of America.
Child-care facilities are a necessity when mothers and fathers (when they exist at all) are unwilling or incapable of caring for their offspring. Unfortunately, they have become a mainstay of the feminista mentality that nothing should stand in the way of a woman’s ambition - nothing, including her family.
Any full-time working wife and mother knows that the family takes the short end of the stick. Marriages and the welfare of children suffer when a stressed-out mother doesn’t have time to be a woman, a wife, and a hands-on Mommy.
Olivia St. John who writes for World Net Daily had an excellent commentary. Some excerpts:
Bristol Palin, the 17-year-old, unmarried daughter of Sarah Palin, is pregnant. Although she plans to keep the baby and marry the father, her immoral shortcoming is still clear for the nation (and world) to see. Is it possible that her very busy, avowedly-feminist mother, the governor of Alaska and presumptive Republican vice-presidential candidate, could have made a moral difference, had she been more available for her daughter?
But is it the right time for Palin's children and for the children of America?
As Palin stole the spotlight, her husband and children stood off-stage watching. Bristol held her mother's 5-month-old baby and carried her unborn grandchild. I wonder if the children know what's ahead for them.
Sarah Palin considers herself a feminist, which gives her affinity with liberals like Geraldine Ferraro and Sen. Hillary Clinton, both of whom she honored by mentioning their achievements in her speech: "It was rightly noted in Denver this week that Hillary left 18 million cracks in the highest, hardest glass ceiling in America, but it turns out the women of America aren't finished yet and we can shatter that glass ceiling once and for all."
Described by Time magazine as fiercely competitive, Palin is not intimidated by juggling family with future responsibilities. She is ready for the challenge. But are her children?
It is clear that Bristol, at least, is not.
Last April, when Palin gave birth to her fifth child, she dutifully returned to her work as governor after three days. A few years prior, while serving as mayor of Wasilla, Alaska, she kept her infant daughter in a car seat under her desk while she worked in her office.
At a time when many former feminists cry foul upon realizing they were duped into thinking they could do it all, few seem to be asking if Palin can do it all.
More and more women who work outside the home say they are stressed and overworked. They regret ever having taken the mantle of both motherhood and working outside the home. They have discovered that under the weight of too much responsibility, something has to give – and any honest woman will tell you that it is the children who get the short shrift. After all, the pressure to make a project deadline in a salaried job is greater than the pressure to make time for one's own children.
While Palin is rightly applauded for her staunch pro-life stand, her embrace of a feminist worldview as it relates to family life is troubling. Palin's desire to "shatter the glass ceiling" is legitimizing the societal phenomenon of the career-centric absentee mother.
Assuming McCain wins the election, I can't help but wonder where under her vice presidential desk Palin plans to keep her bustling 1-year-old. Of course, there will be parent-substitutes to do that job.
In a 2006 edition of Mothering from the Heart, Audrey Broggi notes that Christians who ostensibly value motherhood are undermining it in their actions and words.
"I guess somewhere along the way, Christian women decided to listen to Betty Friedan," Broggi said. "See, the family can always take the back seat – even for the sake of 'the call.' You know what they say: 'God will take care of the children for the sake of ministry.'"
Too many pro-life conservatives who oppose a mother's "choice" to abandon her baby in the womb think little about how pro-choice they are when it comes to leaving children in day-care centers and public school warehouses 50-plus hours a week. A child's life doesn't end once he is born. He still needs his mother.
What message was sent to the mothers of America as Sarah Palin took the vice-presidential spotlight while her children watched from the shadows?
Dr. Laura Schlesinger (I do not endorse her overall since she's not a Christian, but her argumenation regarding Sarah Palin reflects what I've already said):
Forget gender and race. I’m frankly and sadly caught in the dilemma of having to balance policy versus example in touting a candidate for the office of the First Family. I was ferociously attacked (what’s new?) when I spoke out strongly against Bill Clinton’s dalliances in the Oval Office. That situation quickly turned into a debate whether “private has anything to do with public.” Nonsense. Role models are very important. Children and young adults look to those who are visible and successful as a road map of what is acceptable behavior and emulate those actions over the morals and values their parents and churches have taught and tried to reinforce. It’s a tough go these days, when the “bad that men or women do” is used for entertainment purposes without judgment, or is excused because of political or financial considerations.
I am haunted by the family pictures of the Palins during political photo-ops, showing the eldest daughter, now pregnant with her own child, cuddling the family’s newborn. When Mom and Dad both work full-time (no matter how many folks get involved with the children), it becomes a somewhat chaotic situation. Certainly, if a child becomes ill and is rushed to the hospital, and you’re on the hotline with both Israel and Iran as nuclear tempers are flaring, where’s your attention going to be? Where should your attention be? Well, once you put your hand on the Bible and make that oath, your attention has to be with the government of the United States of America.
Child-care facilities are a necessity when mothers and fathers (when they exist at all) are unwilling or incapable of caring for their offspring. Unfortunately, they have become a mainstay of the feminista mentality that nothing should stand in the way of a woman’s ambition - nothing, including her family.
Any full-time working wife and mother knows that the family takes the short end of the stick. Marriages and the welfare of children suffer when a stressed-out mother doesn’t have time to be a woman, a wife, and a hands-on Mommy.
Olivia St. John who writes for World Net Daily had an excellent commentary. Some excerpts:
Bristol Palin, the 17-year-old, unmarried daughter of Sarah Palin, is pregnant. Although she plans to keep the baby and marry the father, her immoral shortcoming is still clear for the nation (and world) to see. Is it possible that her very busy, avowedly-feminist mother, the governor of Alaska and presumptive Republican vice-presidential candidate, could have made a moral difference, had she been more available for her daughter?
But is it the right time for Palin's children and for the children of America?
As Palin stole the spotlight, her husband and children stood off-stage watching. Bristol held her mother's 5-month-old baby and carried her unborn grandchild. I wonder if the children know what's ahead for them.
Sarah Palin considers herself a feminist, which gives her affinity with liberals like Geraldine Ferraro and Sen. Hillary Clinton, both of whom she honored by mentioning their achievements in her speech: "It was rightly noted in Denver this week that Hillary left 18 million cracks in the highest, hardest glass ceiling in America, but it turns out the women of America aren't finished yet and we can shatter that glass ceiling once and for all."
Described by Time magazine as fiercely competitive, Palin is not intimidated by juggling family with future responsibilities. She is ready for the challenge. But are her children?
It is clear that Bristol, at least, is not.
Last April, when Palin gave birth to her fifth child, she dutifully returned to her work as governor after three days. A few years prior, while serving as mayor of Wasilla, Alaska, she kept her infant daughter in a car seat under her desk while she worked in her office.
At a time when many former feminists cry foul upon realizing they were duped into thinking they could do it all, few seem to be asking if Palin can do it all.
More and more women who work outside the home say they are stressed and overworked. They regret ever having taken the mantle of both motherhood and working outside the home. They have discovered that under the weight of too much responsibility, something has to give – and any honest woman will tell you that it is the children who get the short shrift. After all, the pressure to make a project deadline in a salaried job is greater than the pressure to make time for one's own children.
While Palin is rightly applauded for her staunch pro-life stand, her embrace of a feminist worldview as it relates to family life is troubling. Palin's desire to "shatter the glass ceiling" is legitimizing the societal phenomenon of the career-centric absentee mother.
Assuming McCain wins the election, I can't help but wonder where under her vice presidential desk Palin plans to keep her bustling 1-year-old. Of course, there will be parent-substitutes to do that job.
In a 2006 edition of Mothering from the Heart, Audrey Broggi notes that Christians who ostensibly value motherhood are undermining it in their actions and words.
"I guess somewhere along the way, Christian women decided to listen to Betty Friedan," Broggi said. "See, the family can always take the back seat – even for the sake of 'the call.' You know what they say: 'God will take care of the children for the sake of ministry.'"
Too many pro-life conservatives who oppose a mother's "choice" to abandon her baby in the womb think little about how pro-choice they are when it comes to leaving children in day-care centers and public school warehouses 50-plus hours a week. A child's life doesn't end once he is born. He still needs his mother.
What message was sent to the mothers of America as Sarah Palin took the vice-presidential spotlight while her children watched from the shadows?
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